Chrome downloads a 4GB AI file without user consent, researcher alleges
6 hours ago
- #AI Privacy
- #Environmental Impact
- #Google Chrome
- Chrome allegedly downloads a 4GB AI file (weights.bin) for Gemini Nano without user consent.
- The file enables AI features like 'help me write' and scam detection, but Google claims it’s lightweight and auto-uninstalls if resources are low.
- Google now offers a toggle in Chrome settings to disable on-device AI features, though users report the file reappears after deletion.
- This practice may violate European privacy laws (GDPR) and has environmental costs, potentially generating 30,000 tonnes of CO2e.